If you could master the technique of any clarinetist, living or dead, who would it be and why?
Dear fellow tonebase clarinetists,
Imagine for a moment, closing your eyes, playing that first note, and when you open them, you have the impeccable technique of one of the world's most iconic clarinetists. A thrilling thought, isn't it?
This week, let's ponder on this very dream: If you could master the technique of any clarinetist, living or dead, who would it be and why?
Would it be the flawless sound of Sabine Meyer, the effortless swing of Benny Goodman, the astounding articulation of Martin Fröst or maybe the grumbling jazz virtuosity of Eric Dolphy?
Share with the community:
What draws you to this particular clarinetist’s technique?
Are there specific videos or performances that encapsulate their prowess for you?
How do you think adopting their technique would influence your own musical journey?
Remember, it's not just about skill, but the emotion, the legacy, and the story behind each clarinet master that makes them unforgettable.
Can't wait to hear whose clarinet genius you'd like to embody for a day!
9 replies
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The tone quality and musciality of Harold Wright, and the articulation and technique of Martin Fröst. I'm not sure either of those guys are(Fröst) /were(Wright) actually from Earth. When in college I saw Harold Wright live in recital. I believe he played double lip as did his teacher Ralph McLean, never soloed standing up and always played from music rather than from memory - he didn't see the point.
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I admire the inner calm, openness, and directness of Michelle Anderson. I also admire how she engages the older player and positively offers constructive suggestions. What may possibly get lost in the shuffle is that she is such a masterful player, and a consummate musician.
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My 'pick' for this topic is quite a recent discovery: Christoffer Sundqvist. He plays with the Finnish Radio Orchestra but I discovered his playing hearing him at a clarinet festival in May and he has THE most exquisite pianissimo you've ever heard. It's like a beautiful ghost of a clarinet. I never heard anything quite like it! (And he also seems to be a really nice person too)
But I would love to be able to steal that aspect of his technique!
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I would love to invite our newest clarinet community members (welcome!!) to take part in this week's discussion - whose playing do you admire, ? :)